Nissan Altima Engine Camshaft Position Sensor Guide (2008-2019)
Fix your Altima's stalling, rough idle, or starting problems by understanding its camshaft position sensor.
- A failing camshaft sensor on an Altima causes stalling, rough idle, and starting issues.
- For Nissan sensors, brand quality is critical. Hitachi is the OEM supplier and the most recommended choice for reliability.
- Common error codes are P0340 (often for 4-cyl or V6 Bank 1) and P0345 (V6 Bank 2).
- This is an easy DIY repair that can be done in under 30 minutes with basic tools.
Is Your Altima Stalling or Hard to Start? It Could Be a Camshaft Position Sensor.
If your 2008-2019 Nissan Altima is experiencing problems like a rough idle, stalling, poor acceleration, or a check engine light, a failing camshaft position sensor is a common cause. This small sensor plays a big role in how your engine runs. When it fails, it can even prevent the car from starting at all. This guide will help you understand the symptoms, choose the right replacement part, and know what to expect for costs.
Symptoms of a Failing Camshaft Position Sensor
A bad camshaft sensor can make your car act up in several ways. You might notice one or more of these signs:
🎬 See a breakdown of common bad camshaft sensor symptoms.- Check Engine Light: This is the most common symptom. The light will turn on, and a code scanner will likely show codes like P0340 or P0345.
- Engine Stalling: The engine may shut off unexpectedly, especially when idling or at low speeds.
- Difficulty Starting: Your Altima might take longer than usual to start, or it might crank but not start at all. 🎬 Watch this video to see a P0340 no-start diagnosis.
- Rough Idle: The engine may vibrate or run unevenly when you're stopped.
- Poor Acceleration: The car may feel sluggish or lack power when you press the gas pedal.
- Bad Fuel Economy: You may notice you're filling up the gas tank more often because the engine isn't running efficiently.
Known Issues for Nissan Altimas
While no specific recalls exist for this sensor on the 2008-2019 Altima, Nissan sensors are known to be sensitive. Many owners and mechanics report that cheap aftermarket sensors often fail quickly or don't work correctly right out of the box. Problems like stalling when the engine gets hot are common with low-quality replacements. For this reason, using a high-quality part is more important for this repair than for others.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Sensor: Brand Quality Matters
When it comes to electronic parts for your Nissan, not all brands are created equal. For camshaft position sensors, sticking to a trusted brand can save you from doing the job twice.
- Top Tier (OEM Supplier): Hitachi is widely known to be the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) for Nissan. Choosing a Hitachi sensor is the closest you can get to buying the part from a Nissan dealer, often at a lower price. This is the most recommended option for reliability.
- Quality Aftermarket: Brands like Denso, Delphi, and Standard Ignition (SMP) have a reputation for making reliable electronic parts. They are a solid choice if a Hitachi sensor is not available. NGK is also a well-regarded brand in this category.
- Budget Brands: Brands like Dorman, URO Parts, and other store-brands are more affordable. However, for a critical sensor on a Nissan, these can be a gamble. While they might work, they have a higher reported failure rate, and you may find yourself replacing the part again sooner than you'd like.
Pro Tip: Check the Simple Things First
Before you replace the sensor, check a few things. Make sure your engine oil is full and clean, as very low or dirty oil can sometimes trigger sensor codes. Also, inspect the sensor's wiring connector for any damage, corrosion, or looseness. A bad connection can mimic the symptoms of a failed sensor.
Cost to Replace a Nissan Altima Camshaft Position Sensor
The cost depends on whether you do it yourself or have a shop do it. The job is simple and easy to access, making it a great DIY repair.
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Part | $28 - $145 |
| New OEM Part | $110 - $175 |
| Shop Labor | $55 - $140 |
| Total (Shop Repair) | $130 - $250+ |
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the camshaft position sensor located on my Altima?
The location depends on your engine. On the 2.5L 4-cylinder engine, the sensor(s) are on the top of the engine near the valve cover. On the 3.5L V6 engine, there are two sensors, one on the back of each cylinder head, near the firewall.
Do I need to replace both sensors on my V6 Altima?
Not necessarily. A code scanner will tell you which bank has the faulty sensor (P0340 for Bank 1, P0345 for Bank 2). However, since both sensors are the same age, it's often good practice to replace both at the same time to prevent future issues.
Is this a difficult repair to do myself?
No, this is one of the easier repairs you can do. The sensor is usually held in by a single 10mm bolt and is easy to access. The entire job can often be done in under 30 minutes.
What's the difference between a camshaft and crankshaft sensor?
They look similar but have different jobs. The camshaft sensor tracks the top part of the engine (camshaft/valves), while the crankshaft sensor tracks the bottom part (crankshaft/pistons). The computer uses both signals to run the engine. A failure in either can cause similar symptoms, so it's important to read the specific trouble codes.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 23731-JA11B 23731-6CA1A 23731-AL61D 23731-1KC1A
The sensor is a 3-pin magnetic or Hall-effect sensor that reads the position of the camshaft. It is typically secured by a single 10mm bolt and sealed with an O-ring.
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The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Nissan Altima:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Is Your Altima Stalling or Hard to Start? It Could Be a Camshaft Position Sensor.
- Symptoms of a Failing Camshaft Position Sensor
- Known Issues for Nissan Altimas
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Sensor: Brand Quality Matters
- Pro Tip: Check the Simple Things First
- Cost to Replace a Nissan Altima Camshaft Position Sensor
- Frequently Asked Questions
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